Nigeria is stepping up efforts to convince Michael Kayode to switch his international allegiance to the Nigeria national football team, as the defender’s rise in English football continues to attract attention.

According to reports by ViolaNews, officials of the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) are planning a face-to-face meeting with the Brentford F.C. full-back, with the support of Super Eagles head coach Eric Chelle.

The move is part of a strategy to secure the 21-year-old’s commitment before Italy includes him in its senior national team setup.

Kayode has represented Italy at youth levels, featuring for their U18, U19 and U21 teams, but remains eligible to play for Nigeria at senior level as he has yet to earn a full international cap.

NFF officials are expected to outline a clear pathway into the Super Eagles squad during the planned discussions, as Nigeria intensifies efforts to strengthen its defensive options.

Although Kayode previously described playing for the Italian national team as his “primary dream,” his omission from Italy’s senior squad by head coach Gennaro Gattuso for the March European World Cup play-offs has renewed speculation about his international future.

Born in Borgomanero, Italy, to Nigerian parents, Victoria and Anthony, Kayode remains eligible to represent either country at senior level.